AFAS vs Exact Online 2026: Features, Pricing and Differences
In the world of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, AFAS and Exact are two of the most prominent names in the Dutch market. Both platforms offer a wide range of features and modules that help businesses streamline and automate their operational processes.
However, while they operate in the same space, there are significant differences between the two that matter when making your choice. In this article, we provide an independent comparison of AFAS and Exact based on several crucial factors: target audience, features, pricing, localization, integrations, and user experience.
Target Audience
AFAS primarily targets mid-size to large organizations (50 to 2,000 employees). With a comprehensive suite of customizable solutions, it is an excellent choice for organizations in healthcare, education, non-profit, and professional services. AFAS combines ERP with strong HRM and payroll capabilities in a single platform.
Exact Online has a strong focus on smaller and mid-size businesses, particularly in manufacturing, wholesale, and professional services. With a user-friendly interface and a variety of modules, it provides a solid foundation for companies looking for reliable financial and operational management.
An independent ERP advisor helps organizations choose between AFAS and Exact without bias toward either vendor. This ensures the recommendation is based on your business needs, not on license revenue.
Features and Modules
Understanding what each platform offers is crucial to determine which one best fits your organization.
AFAS Core Modules
- Financial Management: managing financial processes and reporting
- HRM & Payroll: personnel management and salary processing
- Project Management: managing projects, hours and budgets
- CRM: relationship management and sales processes
- Supply Chain Management: inventory management and logistics
Exact Online Core Modules
- Accounting: managing financial administration
- CRM: managing customer relationships and sales
- Manufacturing: managing production processes and inventory
- Trade: purchasing, sales and inventory management
- Project Management: managing projects and time tracking
Pricing
AFAS uses annual subscriptions, with costs depending on the number of users and selected modules. It is an all-in-one solution where the price includes updates and support. Expect approximately EUR 200-400 per user per month depending on module selection.
Exact Online offers flexible monthly subscriptions, making it a more accessible option for smaller businesses. Starting prices begin at approximately EUR 15 per month for basic accounting, scaling up to EUR 100+ for comprehensive packages.
The total cost of ownership (TCO) depends not only on license fees but also on implementation, training and maintenance costs. We always recommend comparing the complete picture, not just the sticker price.
Localization
Both platforms are deeply rooted in the Dutch and Belgian markets. AFAS operates primarily in the Netherlands and Belgium, with native support for Dutch tax regulations, social security, and reporting requirements. Exact has a broader international presence with support for multi-currency and multi-country operations.
Integrations & Ecosystem
AFAS offers a well-documented API and a growing marketplace of integrations. Its strength lies in the native integration between ERP and HRM modules, reducing the need for external connectors.
Exact Online has one of the largest integration ecosystems in the Dutch market, with hundreds of third-party apps available through the Exact App Center.
User Experience
Both platforms have invested significantly in modernizing their interfaces. AFAS is known for its clean, modern design that works well on both desktop and mobile. Exact Online offers a straightforward interface that accountants and bookkeepers particularly appreciate for its logical workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, AFAS or Exact?
That depends on your organization. AFAS is the better choice for mid-size organizations (50-2,000 employees) in healthcare, education and professional services, thanks to its strong HRM and payroll modules. Exact Online fits smaller businesses (up to 50 employees) in trade, manufacturing and SMEs, with accounting as its foundation. In our experience across 250+ projects, the choice primarily depends on the primary need: accounting points toward Exact, while HR and process automation point toward AFAS.
What are the competitors of AFAS Software?
The main competitors of AFAS in the Netherlands are Exact Online, SAP Business One, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Unit4 and Visma Raet. Each platform targets a slightly different segment. Where AFAS excels in combining ERP and HRM, Exact focuses more on financial administration.
Is Exact a good accounting program?
Yes, Exact Online is widely recognized as a solid accounting solution for Dutch SMEs. It offers an intuitive interface, good integrations with Dutch banks and an active community of accountants. When your organization grows and also needs HR, manufacturing or more complex reporting, a broader solution like AFAS or Dynamics 365 may be more suitable.
How much does AFAS cost compared to Exact?
AFAS works with annual subscriptions starting at approximately EUR 200-400 per user per month. Exact Online starts at approximately EUR 15 per month for basic accounting, scaling to EUR 100+ for comprehensive packages. We always advise comparing total cost of ownership, not just license fees.
Need Independent Advice?
Choosing between AFAS and Exact is more than a software comparison. It is about which system best fits your business processes, growth ambitions and organizational culture. As an independent consultancy, we help you make this choice without any vendor ties.